HRSA Grant

Basic information and overview about the HRSA Community Health Worker Training Program grant.

Purpose and Goals

The HRSA-funded Community Health Worker training program at Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) aims to strengthen the public health workforce by preparing a new generation of Community Health Workers (CHWs) and Health Support Workers. This initiative will:

• Increase the number of trained CHWs and Health Support Workers.

• Equip trainees to support underserved communities with culturally competent outreach.

• Improve access to and retention in health care and social services.

• Build trust in communities to support public health strategies including recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Contribute to reducing health disparities and advancing health equity.

Focus Areas

The CHW project focuses on expanding and strengthening training in:

• Community Health Worker core competencies.

• Essential public health services.

• Emergency response preparedness.

• Work-based learning models including apprenticeships and internships.

Program Priorities

• Access: Serve residents in high-need census tracts across Kent and Ottawa Counties by removing barriers to education through wraparound services and tuition support.

• Workforce Alignment: Incorporate feedback from employers using a Plan-Do-Study-Act model to improve curriculum quality and job readiness.

• Sustainability: Institutionalize continuous improvement practices through data evaluation and employer engagement.

• Data Use: Use participant surveys and focus groups to inform iterative program development and ensure equity in outcomes.

Consortium and Partnerships

• Lead Institution: Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC)

• Community and Employer Partners:

  • West Michigan Works!

  • Public health organizations for field placements.

  • Community-based organizations for outreach and support.

Career Pathways and Participant Goals

Participants will:

• Engage in hybrid coursework covering CHW competencies and emergency preparedness.

• Participate in hands-on learning through internships, field placements, and registered apprenticeships.

• Graduate in cohorts with certifications.

• Receive job placement support from coaches and employment partners.

Sustainable Systems Change

This grant promotes long-term improvements in:

• Curricular alignment with public health workforce needs.

• Access to job-embedded learning (e.g., apprenticeships).

• Equity-focused outreach in disadvantaged communities.

• Wraparound services delivery.

• Use of participant data and satisfaction measures to guide decision-making.